Etihad Expands at LHR with American Airlines Slot Lease

Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has leased prime slots at London Heathrow Airport (LHR) from American Airlines for the summer 2025 season. The lease agreement allows Etihad to utilize these slots from March 30, 2025, to October 25, 2025, with the possibility of extending the lease period.

By Aditya M

This strategic move enhances Etihad's presence at one of the world's busiest airports, underscoring its commitment to connecting Abu Dhabi (AUH) with global hubs and strengthening ties with its transatlantic partner, American Airlines. The leased slots will facilitate the introduction of a new daily service between Abu Dhabi and London, further solidifying Etihad's position as a major player in the transatlantic market.

American Airlines has agreed to lease Etihad a daily slot for the summer 2025 season, allowing Etihad to launch a new daily flight (EY703) between Abu Dhabi and London. While initial filings indicate the use of an Airbus A321, with its 196 seats, for this route, Etihad is likely to finalize the aircraft type and other service details closer to the launch date.

Key Points:

  • Etihad's leased slots at LHR are from American Airlines.  
     
  • The lease agreement runs from March 30, 2025, to October 25, 2025.  
     
  • Etihad plans to launch a new daily flight between Abu Dhabi and London.  
     
  • The new service is expected to be operated under flight number EY703.  
     
  • Etihad's initial filing suggests the use of an Airbus A321.

Etihad is set to play a more significant role in the London market with this slot lease. As the summer 2025 season approaches, more details about the new service, including the final aircraft type, schedules, and on-board offerings, are expected to be released. Travelers can anticipate a wider range of travel options and potentially competitive fares on the Abu Dhabi-London route.

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